Tensions gripped Nagamangala town in Karnataka's Mandya district after clashes between two groups allegedly during a Ganpati procession. Shops and businesses were set afire by a group as the police had to impose restrictive orders in the area.
As per initial information, some people from Badarikoppalu village were taking out a procession for Ganpati idol immersion. As the procession was passing on the main road in Nagamangala, stones were thrown at them, allegedly from near a mosque.
The situation deteriorated, leading to clashes between the two groups. Some people vandalised shops and set fire to two vehicles.
Police attempted to bring the situation under control. Angry members of the Hindu community protested at the police station, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible for the incident.
Mallikarjun Baladandi, Mandya Superintendent of Police (SP), told, when the procession arrived near the mosque, they spent more time there without moving.
"There were arguments between members of the two communities over this. Police intervened and tried to disperse the crowd. Due to the large number of people, the police had to resort to lathicharge to control the situation. Following that, people protested in front of the police station. Members of the other community also gathered in large numbers and started throwing stones. They even torched a few bikes and shops on the roadside," the SP said.
Some videos showed a group of people throwing stones at the other group.
In response, police have declared a high alert in the area and imposed Section 163 of Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (order issued in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger) to bring the situation under control
SP Baladandi said that the situation is now "completely under control". "We have sufficient police forces, and fire engines are at the spot. No one suffered major injuries; only a few sustained minor injuries," he added.
